Activities are important for people with dementia

Presented by Vista Gardens

At-home care for a loved one with dementia goes far beyond basic medical and comfort care. Consistent, meaningful activities that stimulate cognitive functioning are equally important. Unfortunately, this rarely takes place in the home environment; such programs are far more likely to occur in the assisted living or day care arena. Diane Darby Beach, MPH, Ed.D., director of education and outreach for Vista Gardens Memory Care Community, explains the importance of meaningful activities for those suffering from dementia. In order to evaluate these programs, Dr. Beach advises the following should take place:

Assessment

In order to do this, a formal initial assessment that involves family, when available, and ongoing interaction with a resident promotes understanding of the activities that would be meaningful to the person with dementia.

These assessments help determine various individual characteristics relevant to social engagement and activity participation. To involve them in the most meaningful activities, the following characteristics of the person with dementia should be assessed:

• Capability for physical movement.

• Tolerance of cognitive engagement.

• Interest in social interaction.

• Desire for spiritual participation.

• Cultural values.

• Prior recreational interests and preferences.

At the time of admission to Vista Gardens, families and residents are asked to provide staff with "a life story" that summarizes the individual’s past experiences, their personal preferences and current capabilities. Social engagement is not the sole responsibility of the activities staff. Specifically, every staff member at Vista Gardens has the responsibility and the opportunity to interact with each resident in a meaningful manner.

Deteriorating verbal communication skills does not prevent residents with dementia from being socially approachable. On the contrary, staff may play an even more important role by initiating interaction. For example, if a resident's life story indicates that the resident enjoys music, residents will be encouraged to play and enjoy music or sing. At Vista Gardens, there is a baby grand piano in the foyer for residents and staff to use at any time.

Environment

Elements in the structure or layout of an assisted living residence also promote opportunities for meaningful activity. At Vista Gardens, the physical environment encourages and supports independence while promoting safe engagement in activities. The optimal environment feels comfortable and familiar, as a home would, rather than a hospital. The environment should have a pleasing physical structure as well as a warm feeling inspired by the quality of care.

For more information about dementia care, attend one of the upcoming free seminars taught by Dr. Beach including “Communication and Dementia,” on Feb. 12 at 1 p.m. and “Is it Dementia or Something Else?” on Feb. 18 at 10 a.m.